News

Character appreciation

Collaborative seeks nominations for community volunteers

by
Emily West / Pleasanton Weekly

When it comes to setting goals, the people of Pleasanton often refer back to the basics that have helped shape this community of character.

The traits of responsibility, self-discipline, compassion, honesty, respect and integrity are highlighted throughout the city limits. Juanita Haugen, late and longtime school board member, was instrumental in developing these six traits for the school district. She later expanded the program and became co-founder of the Community of Character Collaborative four years ago.

The Collaborative is now seeking nominations for the 2010 Juanita Haugen Community of Character Award. Established in 2008, it recognizes Pleasanton residents modeling high ethical and moral standards of behavior. Much of it reflects Haugen, the award's namesake, who spent countless hours of her life in community service.

Nominees must be Pleasanton residents, demonstrate a commitment to quality volunteer work in the community and exhibit volunteerism above and beyond their day-to-day duties. Past award recipients include Lori Rice and Diana and Howard Mendenhall in 2008, and Jerri Pantages-Long, Sue Evans and Ken Mano in 2009.

To nominate someone who has demonstrated a commitment to the Community of Character traits through volunteer work, can download a form from www.communityofcharacter.org. Forms may also be picked up at the Pleasanton Unified School District office, 4665 Bernal Ave.; the Pleasanton Chamber of Commerce, 777 Peters Ave.; or at City Hall, 200 Old Bernal Ave.

Forms must be submitted by April 1 and winners will be announced May 6 at the Community of Character Collaborative luncheon. The event will be held at Castlewood Country Club. Tickets are $35, which includes a $5 donation to the Community of Character Juanita Haugen Civic Engagement Scholarship Fund.

Nominations due by Sept. 17
Pleasanton Weekly and DanvilleSanRamon.com are once again putting out a call for nominations and sponsorships for the annual Tri-Valley Heroes awards - our salute to the community members dedicated to bettering the Tri-Valley and the lives of its residents.